Air Bags for RAM 3500

[mtlakejim]

Who is running airbags on their RAM 3500? What brand/model did you go with? What was the cost? How hard was the install if you did it yourself and if not how much was the install? Most important, how well did they perform and were they worth the investment?

[OutlawPilot]

I originally wanted the self-levelling system as an option but the great deal on my RAM 3500 was too good to pass up and it wasn't so equipped. In the Cummins forum though there was much discussion on the fact that the automated nature of the factory system was a drawback because there's no manual options. Those critical of the factory option were very much in favor of aftermarket, which really eased my concerns that I was missing out on something I wanted.

I had Air Lift airbags in my Damon Outlaw class A (the origin of my OutlawPilot handle, BTW) and really liked them, and LOVED the level of service from Air Lift so that's where I went for my RAM.

I just purchased the Air Lift 88295 LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Spring Kit with Internal Jounce Bumper. I originally considered the Ultimate+ version with stainless steel air lines but found a great deal and jumped. Plus I'm adding the compressor which comes with rubber lines anyway.

The install for this should take 2 hours. I will NOT be doing it as I'm just not as mechanical as I think that would need. A truck shop already balked at the time estimate saying "oh, they always say it'll take little time." So THEY'RE out (Action Truck Accessories in Hamilton).

[OutlawPilot]

Oh, and the compressor kit is the AIR LIFT 72000 Wireless Air Leveling Compressor. Action Truck poo-pooed at that being my choice, but it's the system I had in the Outlaw. I know it. I trust it.

The added benefit with THIS system is that there's a certain automated feature that is similar to the OEM but better because it's user set.

You use the remote to set your pressure and the system simply maintains that pressure. Lose some air from a bag? The system tops you up to your preset pressure. I've found it really is a set it and forget it kind of deal.

Looking forward to getting that installed. This compressor system is apparently a 1 hour install for a total of 3. Now to find a place that will do it reasonably.

[WeBeFulltime]

I had Firestones on my Ram 2500 and they were OK but I prefer the Air Lifts with on-board air that I have on the F350. More robust! I installed myself and wasn't too bad.

[racquetballfreq]

I installed the AirLift Ultimate 5000 with the on-board compressor. Directions were straight forward, (also watched YouTube video that I found online). The install was easy and, as a bonus, I asked them for the $100 rebate that they were offering to “professionally” installed systems and they agreed. I ended up paying around $500 and is worth every penny.

[trustymopars]

I installed the Air Lifts on mine and they work great. Not a bad install, about 2 hours. I didn't get a compressor, just got a "T" to connect both sides. 25 psi makes the ride much smoother going down the road. I just let them down after we un-hitch, and air them back up when I'm checking tire pressure before moving on.JT

[OutlawPilot]

Originally Posted by racquetballfreq

I installed the AirLift Ultimate 5000 with the on-board compressor. Directions were straight forward, (also watched YouTube video that I found online). The install was easy and, as a bonus, I asked them for the $100 rebate that they were offering to “professionally” installed systems and they agreed. I ended up paying around $500 and is worth every penny.

Did you have access to a hoist for your installation or did you manage to get it done somehow on the ground?

[Ram Montana High Country]

I like the Airlift System, used it on a Toyota Tacoma. It might be interesting if it could be tied to Air connection on pin box ... might require a few more parts

[trustymopars]

I installed mine on the ground. As high as these trucks sit, it was pretty easy to use a creeper. JT